FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Bands who should play Slam Dunk

In case you haven't heard, the second announcement for this year's Slam Dunk festival is on Wednesday. I've been wondering which bands should be announced, and I think I've narrowed it down to ten that I'm really hoping for... Fingers crossed that at least one of these bands will be added to the line up.

10) Brand New

There were rumours that Brand New were going to play Slam Dunk a couple of years ago, and with exciting things happening in their camp at the moment, this might be more likely than ever before. 

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot'. 

9) Creeper

Creeper were definitely one of the breakout bands of last year, and with new material being released and a headline tour on the horizon, a festival appearance could catapult them that little bit further.

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'We Had A Pact'.

8) Tonight Alive

Tonight Alive last played the festival three years ago, so I think it's about time they returned. 

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'The Other Side'. 

7) Dead!

Another UK band who had a huge 2015, Dead! would be the perfect fit at a festival that really supports homegrown talent.
If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'Phantom'.

6) Decade

Decade recently finished recording their second album, and what better way to formally launch it to the world? 

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'Daisy May'. But because they haven't formally released that, I'd also be happy if they played 'British Weather'. 

5) Breathe Carolina

Breathe Carolina have gone markedly more dance than they were back in their early days, but I think that could be a good thing. A festival always needs a band who will get the crowd moving and taking themselves less seriously! If not Breathe Carolina, I'd be happy with 3OH!3. 

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'Blackout'. 

4) Don Broco

I want Don Broco to play for purely selfish reasons: if I see them live this year, I'll have seen them ten times. They'll be my first band in double figures, and that's an achievement I want to gain.
If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'Thug Workout'.

3) A Static Lullaby

A Static Lullaby reunited at some point last week - literally days ago - so I think it would be brilliant for their debut UK reunion show to be a festival appearance.
If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us All'.

2) The Early November

I might be cheating on this inclusion, because on Wednesday The Early November announced on their Twitter that they had an announcement in a week's time... Hopefully, that announcement will coincide with the line-up additions. 

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'Ever So Sweet'. 

1) Hawthorne Heights

Hawthorne Heights have announced a huge American tour playing their album 'If Only You Were Lonely' in full, but there aren't any UK dates just yet. I can't imagine them playing the entire album at Slam Dunk, but even an appearance would be a great way to commemorate the anniversary.

If they played Slam Dunk, their set would need to include: 'Saying Sorry'. 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Best albums of 2015

2015 was both a good and bad year for music. It spawned albums brilliant and mediocre, and included band reunions and break-ups. So it feels appropriate to officially send the year off with a collection of the best albums released over the last 12 months.

10) 'Lower Than Atlantis: The Black Edition' by Lower Than Atlantis

This is cheating, because it's a re-release, but Lower Than Atlantis's self-titled album was my favourite album of 2014, so I had to include 'The Black Edition' on this playlist. It features many, many more songs (fifteen in total) and with alternative versions of the songs I already loved and some very surprising covers, it was impossible not to enjoy the re-release just as much as the original.

My favourite song on the album? 'Get Over It'.

9) 'Ones and Zeros' by Young Guns

I did expect more from Young Guns third release, but with a host of catchy singles and a dramatic change in direction 'Ones and Zeros' definitely wasn't them staying in their comfort zone. They deserve recognition for their bravery, if nothing else. 

My favourite song on the album? 'Rising Up'. 

8) 'ARK' by We Are The Ocean

I almost forgot about 'ARK', because it was released quite early last year, but I still adore the sound and the development that We Are The Ocean managed to undergo. 

My favourite song on the album? 'Do It Together'. 

7) 'Purpose' by Justin Bieber

Woah. This one's a shocker, isn't it? But the truth is, I was a proper little Belieber when I was younger, and with Justin's new dance sensibilities and mature sound I just can't help but appreciate this album. I haven't heard it in its entirety yet, but that'll happen soon enough.

My favourite song on the album? 'What Do You Mean'.

6) 'Life's Not Out To Get You' by Neck Deep

Despite the negative events that unfolded right after the release, Neck Deep released a banger of an album in the form of 'Life's Not Out To Get You'. It's certainly elevated their career to unexpected heights, and that's just going to continue throughout 2016 with their impending world tour.

My favourite song on the album? 'Gold Steps'.

5) 'That's The Spirit' by Bring Me The Horizon

With a release that was both surprising and utterly successful, Bring Me The Horizon broke free from their chains with their nu-metal infused fifth album. 

My favourite song on the album? 'True Friends'. 

4) 'Blossom' by Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes

After Pure Love broke up, Frank Carter took a bit of time off from music - it was a well-deserved break, and by coming back with the Rattlesnakes to release 'Blossom', it definitely paid off.
My favourite song on the album? 'Fangs'.

3) 'Automatic' by Don Broco

DON'T YOU WANNA BE AUTOMATIC?

Well yeah, I did, that's why I bought the album and FREAKING LOVED IT. 

My favourite song on the album? 'Nerve'. 

2) 'Badlands' by Halsey

Halsey was the breakout star of 2015, going from small shows to selling out Madison Square Garden within a matter of months. With her honest lyrical content and catchy backing tracks, I couldn't help but love Halsey as soon as I started listening to her. 

My favourite song on the album? 'Strange Love'. 

1) 'Blurryface' by twenty one pilots

This is going to be a surprise for everyone, because I hated 'Blurryface' when it was released, but it's definitely grown on me over the last three months. 

My favourite song on the album? 'The Judge'. 

I hope you enjoyed this Friday Playlist: see you next week! 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Can't wait for albums of 2016

Another year has passed, meaning that we're finally in 2016, which is going to be a huge year for music. 

These are just ten of the albums that I'm most excited about this year (and that's out of the ones that have been announced, who knows what surprise releases might get sprung on us?). 

10) PVRIS

This one isn't concerned, but I have a pretty good feeling that we will have a new PVRIS album before 2016 is over. Vocalist Lynn Gunn has been talking about the writing process of the new songs frequently over the past few months, so that's a very good sign. 

To tide you over, here's 'Eyelids'.

9) The Summer Set

'Legendary' was the album that really made me fall in love with The Summer Set, so I've been waiting for their fourth album with bated breath. The album is finished, I'm just waiting on a release date (and a UK tour please!). 

My favourite song from The Summer Set is definitely 'Boomerang', so let's take a moment to have a little boogie.

8) Deaf Havana

Deaf Havana's fourth album is well underway and after hearing 'Trigger' live back in July I was already excited about it - the release of 'Cassiopeia' a couple of months ago definitely heightened my anticipation of this album.

7) Of Mice and Men

Despite all of screamer Austin Carlile's health problems over the last couple of months, Of Mice and Men have still had the time to put an album together, which will definitely be out at some point over the next twelve months.

There's no more information about this album, so enjoy 'Broken Generation' from the re-release of their previous album, 'Restoring Force: Full Circle'. 

6) Decade

Decade are wonderful. Their debut album, 'Good Luck', was a little bit safe, but with two years of touring experience under their belts and the fact that they're working with the legendary producer Romesh Dodangonda (of Kids In Glass Houses/The Blackout fame) their second album should be something very special.

Hopefully, their second album will include more songs like the wonderful 'British Weather'. 

5) 'Coasts' by Coasts

After seeing Coasts supporting Don Broco, I couldn't resist pre-ordering their beautiful self-titled album. I've been listening to them a bit more frequently since I saw them, but I'm looking forward to hearing a full album of material.

'Coasts' is released January 22nd.

4) 'Taking One For The Team' by Simple Plan

Taking the award for best album artwork in 2016 (so far), Simple Plan's fifth album is already looking like it's going to be their best. With a tracklist of fourteen songs, there's likely to be something on this album for everyone. 

'Taking One For The Team' comes out February 19th. 

3) 'Limitless' by Tonight Alive

I've slowly but surely been becoming a bigger fan of Tonight Alive, so the release of their third album is likely to be make or break for me.

'Limitless' is released on March 4th. 

2) 'I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it' by The 1975

I wasn't a huge fan of The 1975's first album, but with the direction that their music is heading in I know that I'm going to fall in love with album number two.

'I like it when you sleep...' finally comes out on February 26th. 

1) 'Death of a Bachelor' by Panic! At The Disco

The first official release from Panic! At The Disco as a solo outfit, it'll be interesting to hear how that's impacted on the sound. With six songs already released, there's only going to be five new songs when the album actually comes out - it's still worth waiting for them, though. 

'Death of a Bachelor' drops on January 15th. I'm seeing the band on January 12th, so keep an eye out for the review of that show too!

Happy New Year!

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Have yourself a very pop punk Christmas

The best thing about Christmas is Christmas music.
The best thing about music is pop punk.
So, here's a playlist of the best goddamn Christmassy rock songs that your ears will ever enjoy. Rock on, amigos, and have a very merry Christmas.

10) 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' by My Chemical Romance

The heaviest of the songs on this playlist, and the most unexpected. 

9) 'Last Christmas' by We The Kings/Metro Station/The Maine

Okay, okay, this is totally cheating, because it's extra songs... But I love all of these versions of 'Last Christmas' so I couldn't choose between them. Shoot me. 

8) 'White Christmas' by Panic! At The Disco

You might know Panic! At The Disco as the Halloween band, but they also branched out into Christmas music for a brief period. 

7) 'Yule Shoot Your Eye Out' by Fall Out Boy

My best friend introduced me to this song last Christmas, and I couldn't believe I'd never heard it before. It's a work of art. 

6) 'Merry Christmas (Wherever You Are)' by Lower Than Atlantis

This is such an underrated song, but it's brilliant.

5) 'Old Mexico' by The Summer Set

Slowing things down a little bit, this song is absolutely gorgeous.

4) 'Happy Holidays, You Bastard' by Blink 182

IT'S CHRISTMAS EVE AND I'VE ONLY WRAPPED TWO FUCKING PRESENTS. 

3) 'Merry Christmas, Kiss My Ass' by All Time Low

Sassy Christmas songs.

2) 'Christmas Time (Don't Let The Bells End)' by The Darkness

The epitome of pop punk Christmas.

1) 'Secret Santa' by Kids In Glass Houses

Find me a better Christmas song than this one. Oh wait, you can't. 

So that was your twelve song Christmas playlist, for the twelve days of Christmas! I have many, many more holiday songs that I could recommend to you... But we'll save those for next year.
I hope your holiday is merry and bright and you get everything that you want (well, not everything, that would be awful!) - cherish your family, your friends and your loved ones. 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Christmas edition (Classics)

I'm a sucker for Christmas.
Christmas jumpers, Christmas trees, Christmas music.
Christmas music is my absolute jam. So, of course, this Christmas playlist has to be a ginormous, Christmassy two part extravaganza. One playlist filled with classic Christmas songs, the other filled with modern and pop-punk masterpieces.
Sorry not sorry.

10) 'Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer'

Preferably the version with the ad libs, in which everyone sings about the Spice Girls. 

9) 'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus' by The Jackson 5

It's just so cute! ...Even if the story behind the song is just a little bit creepy. 

8) 'Merry Christmas Everybody' by Slade

One of the most iconic openings ever. 

7) 'Jingle Bell Rock' by Bobby Helms

Purely for that iconic scene in 'Mean Girls'. 

6) 'Santa Baby' by Eartha Kitt

5) 'It's Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas' by Michael Buble

Michael Buble's entire Christmas album is rather spectacular, but the opening track is something extremely special. 

4) 'White Christmas' by Bing Crosby

"I'm dreaming of a white christmas", but with how damp the weather is here I don't think my dreams are going to come true. 

3) 'Last Christmas' by Wham!

There are so many brilliant covers of this song (some of which will appear in next week's playlist) but you can't really top the original. 

2) 'Fairytale of New York' by The Pogues

Hardcore Christmas. 

1) 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' by Mariah Carey

Try to beat this song. Go on, I dare you. 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Discovered in 2015 edition

As it gets closer to the end of the year, I'm looking back over the last year and realising that I've discovered some pretty amazing bands and artists in the last twelve months. Here are ten of them.

10) Jeremy Loops

After seeing Jeremy supporting twenty one pilots, I'm excited to hear more of his music - his sound is so unique, and I really appreciate the talent it takes to play so many different instruments.

9) Alvarez Kings

I fell in love with Alvarez Kings back in April, and I'm hoping to be able to see them again in 2015.

8) Man With A Mission

I only discovered Man With A Mission at the end of November, but their memorable stage show with their wolf personas means I'm not likely to forget them any time soon.

7) HECK

I first listened to HECK in their previous incarnation, Baby Godzilla, back in March at Takedown Festival. Seeing them as HECK at Warped UK was absolutely mind-blowing: I still can't believe they reassembled their entire stage set up in the middle of the crowd.

6) Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes

Does it count as discovering a band in 2015 if they actually only formed this year? 'Blossom', the debut album by Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, is definitely one of the best albums that was released in the last twelve months.

5) Patent Pending

Another band that I only discovered in November, I can't stop singing along to 'Hey Mario' in my head. It's a very empowering song, and it really does make you feel better when life gets you down.

4) Elasea

I discovered Elasea when they supported Funeral For A Friend, and they quickly became one of the most exciting new bands I'd encountered. I was given their EP, 'Where I Belong', early, and I absolutely love it - I still listen to it all of the time!

3) Heartwork

Heartwork, a.k.a Dan O'Dell, is a strange mixture of an artist. With hilarious stage banter that means you can't help but laugh, combined with soulfully heart-wrenching lyrics that just make you want to die... It's a very confusing time. I actually get to see Dan live one more time next week, and I'm really looking forward to it - even if I will need to have a cry afterwards.

2) Halsey

Coming in at number two, Ashley Frangipane is definitely the best solo artist that I've discovered this year. Since releasing her debut album, 'Badlands', Halsey is taking the world by storm, selling out Madison Square Garden two nights in a row, just for starters. Halsey doesn't make the normal kind of music that I listen to, but I love her in spite of that - I'm looking forward to seeing what she can do to follow the biggest year of her life.

1) PVRIS

To anyone who didn't expect PVRIS to top this list: come on, do you even know me?! Thinking about the fact that I've only known who PVRIS are for a year is crazy to me - I've seen them four times, with a fifth coming up in April, and they've quickly become one of my favourite bands. It feels as though I must have been following them for years, but I'm excited about what the future - and album two - will hold.

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Winter edition

Happy Friday! The weather has most definitely turned - it's absolutely freezing outside! - so winter has definitely arrived. The following songs are perfect to listen to in the dreadful weather (I definitely recommend them for walking home in the cold late at night!).

10) 'Winter Passing' by The Academy Is...

Is the title not enough of a reason? Well, and the fact that it's The Academy Is..., I'll use any excuse to put them on a playlist. 

9) 'The Light That Shines Twice As Bright' by Lostprophets

I haven't included any of the bands songs in the playlists so far, because it's still too soon after the imprisonment of their vocalist, but it felt wrong to pass over this song. I can't put my finger on why, but it reminds me of frost and the first snow. 

8) 'The A Team' by Ed Sheeran

"Breathing in the snowflakes". 

7) 'Breathe Me' by Sia

Such a stunning song, and listening to it in the cold really heightens the emotion of the lyrics. 

6) 'Bad Day' by Daniel Powter

"You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost." 

5) 'Deathbeds' by Bring Me The Horizon

Definitely the calmest and most beautiful Bring Me The Horizon song: heartbreaking. 

4) 'Winter Kiss' by Young Guns

This song makes you feel really powerful when you're walking quickly to it in snow. Risking your life to a very rocky track? Super badass. 

3) 'Angels' by The XX

Such a beautiful song, and it definitely sends a shiver down your spine. 

2) 'Goner' by twenty one pilots

The original version, with the snowy video and the hauntingly beautiful accordion accompaniment. 

1) 'Sweater Weather' by The Neighbourhood

I feel as though I've used this song in my playlists too much this year, but I can't resist using it one more time. "It's too cold, for you here".

I hope you have a good week - remember to wrap up warm, because it's getting extremely cold out! 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Songs I'm seeing this weekend

I'm seeing eight bands this weekend (Eight. EIGHT?!) and I'm excited about all three gigs that I'm going to. So this Friday playlist - the return from our brief hiatus, while I completely NaNoWriMo - is the ten songs I'm most looking forward to hearing this weekend. You can expect to read about all ten of them in my reviews over the coming three days!

10) 'A Part of Me' by Neck Deep (ft. Laura Whiteside)

I adore this song. I'm not ashamed to admit that my eyes well up every time I hear it - live and recorded - so I always look forward to hearing this song.

9) 'Psycho in Love' by Patent Pending

I don't know much (see: any) of Patent Pending's material, but I've tried to listen to them over the last few weeks because I'm seeing them on Sunday, and I'm meeting them too! This is one of their songs that I've enjoyed the most - it's so catchy!

8) 'Happy Song' by Bring Me The Horizon

This song is absolutely electrifying in a live environment, and I can't wait to see it again.

7) 'Holy' by PVRIS

I've seen PVRIS live four times this year (after this weekend) but I've only heard 'Holy' once, so I'm looking forward to hearing it again. 

6) 'Chocolate' by The 1975

When I last saw The 1975 - at Reading festival 2014 - I only managed to see half of 'Chocolate', because I got to their set really late. It'll be exciting to finally hear it in full.

5) 'Rescue Me' by Zebrahead

I can't remember much about the first time I saw Zebrahead, but I can remember hearing 'Rescue Me' and really enjoying it. I'm not sure how much of Zebrahead's set I'm going to see - damn the lack of public transport on a Sunday! - so I'm probably going to miss 'Rescue Me'... Fingers crossed that they'll do it in the pre-show acoustic set that I'm attending.

4) 'Sign On' by Rat Boy

I missed Rat Boy at Reading festival, but 'Sign On' is just so catchy that I'm really hoping they perform it in their support slot for The 1975. 

3) 'True Friends' by Bring Me The Horizon

Based on the setlist that Bring Me The Horizon have been playing for the tour so far, I'm going to be hearing two new songs from 'That's The Spirit': 'Doomed' and 'True Friends'. I'm definitely more excited for the latter - it's a banger! 

2) 'Love Me' by The 1975

You have to admit, this song is absolutely amazing. I'm not a huge fan of The 1975 - I only bought tickets to their show because it was in my hometown! - but 'Love Me' is the exact change in direction that I'd been hoping for from the band. 

1) 'Can't Kick Up The Roots' by Neck Deep

I've never been a massive fan of Neck Deep, but for some reason I just can't stop listening to 'Can't Kick Up The Roots'. I'm getting very excited about seeing them, and it's the first time that that's happened - maybe this will be the weekend when I finally fall in love with them.

Thanks for listening to this Friday playlist: see you on the other side of this gig weekend!

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Halloween edition

Happy Halloween everyone! This is my Christmas. This is my day. I love Halloween more than I think I love anything in the world. So what better way to celebrate than with ten top-notch spooky songs?!

10) 'It's Almost Halloween' by Panic! At The Disco

I'm still not quite sure what is happening in this video. It's definitely scary though!

9) 'Forever Halloween' by The Maine

Who wouldn't want it to be Halloween forever?!

8) 'Time Warp'

It's just a jump to the left, AND THEN A STEP TO THE RI-I-I-I-I-IGHT!

7) 'Spooky Scary Skeletons'

Lauren, are you happy now?! 

6) 'We're Going To Hell... So Bring The Sunblock' by The Blackout

The reanimated dead are always scary, but they're also good to have a Halloween boogie with.

5) 'I Put A Spell On You'

I still need to watch 'Hocus Pocus'.

4) 'Twisted Nerve' by Bernard Herrmann

Come on, this song is one of the creepiest things to feature in American Horror Story, and they've included a lot of freaky stuff.

3) 'Thriller' by Michael Jackson

The video to this song still gives me the heebiejeebies. 

2) 'Monster Mash'

Cheesy as heck, but I love it. 

1) 'This Is Halloween' by Panic! At The Disco

I mean, I could have chosen the original version, but I thought it would be appropriate to start and end the playlist with the same band. 

Happy Halloween everyone - have a great night of spooking!

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Broken up bands edition

It's been a whole year since I went to see Kids In Glass Houses on their farewell tour, so it only feels right to use this week to commemorate all of the bands that shouldn't have broken up. Tissues at the ready!

10) My Chemical Romance

One of the most shocking splits of all time, no one was expecting this news. 

9) Elliot Minor

It's crazy that Elliot Minor officially went on hiatus five years ago (and, by the way, hiatuses totally count as splits because they're extended breaks), and despite the fact that they played a few one of reunion shows last year, it doesn't really feel like they're back. 

8) The Academy Is...

The Academy Is... have announced a couple of reunion shows, supporting the tenth anniversary of their debut album, but is this a fully blown reunion? I somehow don't think so. 

7) Framing Hanley

Framing Hanley announced their break up earlier this year, and unfortunately they couldn't play any UK farewell shows. They were underrated, and definitely deserved more recognition than they received.

6) Madina Lake

It's been two years since Madina Lake played their farewell tour, which blows my mind - it only feels like a few months ago that they announced it! This one was rather expected, as they'd always planned to write a trilogy of albums, which wrapped up with the release of 'World War III'. 

5) Save Your Breath

After supporting Kids In Glass Houses on their farewell tour, Save Your Breath decided to call it a day as well. 

4) Funeral For A Friend

I wasn't surprised when Funeral For A Friend announced their farewell tour - I'd been convinced that the end was near after seeing them at Oxford - but I was still disappointed. I've got tickets to their final two London shows, so I'm looking forward to April to give them the send off they deserve.

3) Blitz Kids

I think Blitz Kids break up is definitely the biggest loss for the UK rock scene. Their debut album, 'The Good Youth', was the stand-out debut of 2014, and the follow up would have been spectacular. I still don't understand this split.

2) Kids In Glass Houses

If I could change one of the break ups on this list, it would be this one. RIP, KIGH. </3 

1) The Blackout

The Blackout are on the same level as Kids In Glass Houses, for me. They were both my favourite bands, and I lost them both within a year, which bloody well sucked! Two huge losses for the Welsh rock scene, which is looking rather forlorn now. 

I'm gonna go and have a little cry, but I hope you liked this playlist...

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Warped UK edition

Somehow, the time has flown by so quickly that it's nearly the end of October - that means it's time to get excited for Warped UK, which is happening this Sunday! Out of the fifty bands on the line up, there is only one that I don't like, so I'm going to have a very busy day running around trying to see as many people as possible. These are the ten I'm most looking forward to seeing, so buckle up:

10) Black Veil Brides

I don't really like Black Veil Brides, but because they're one of the two co-headliners I'm definitely going to make the effort to go along for a couple of songs in their set. I'm not sure what I'll think, but I'll try anything once!

9) John Coffey

I like John Coffey's sound, so I'm interested to see them in that respect, but I also want to see if their vocalist, David Achter, does anything as awesome as he did at Pinkpop festival this summer.

8) Beautiful Bodies

I am very partial to a female vocalist, so I need to catch Beautiful Bodies. I'm already seeing them in February, supporting The Maine and Mayday Parade, so if the set clashes are too deadly I probably will skip them - hopefully the stage time gods will be on my side. 

7) Boy Jumps Ship

I keep missing Boy Jumps Ship, which is a shame because they're a brilliant example of UK pop punk. Their material is really catchy, and I feel like I could really get into this band. 

6) The Word Alive

The Word Alive are one of those bands that I've nearly seen multiple times, but the plans have always fallen through. I'm definitely going to catch some of their set at Warped, even if I can't see the whole thing.

5) Asking Alexandria

I've never loved Asking Alexandria. However, I think their new vocalist Denis Shaforostov is much more vocally talented than their previous vocalist, so I'm interested to hear how their old songs play out with a new singer. 

4) Never Shout Never

'What Is Love?' by Never Shout Never was one of my favourite albums of all time when it was released. Because their direction has changed so much over the years (the addition of more band members, Christofer Drew Ingle's voice breaking) I almost hoping that they don't play earlier songs - new release 'Hey! We Ok' is pretty catchy though.

3) The Rocket Summer

The Rocket Summer (stage name for Bryce Avery) is one of those artists that I always seem to forget about. I listened to a lot of his earlier stuff, then forgot to listen to any of the newer releases - I'm looking forward to hearing some new material, but I'm still hoping 'So Much Love' gets played. 

2) Forever Came Calling

I'm a bit too excited for Forever Came Calling, because they tweeted me and said that 'Ides' is definitely going to be making it on to the setlist. It's one of my favourite songs of all time, and I know I'm going to see their entire set. 

1) Metro Station

When it was announced that Metro Station were finally returning to the UK, I will admit that I did nearly cry. I'm so excited to see them live, even if the majority of their material is super cheesy pop punk. Who doesn't want to dance to 'Shake It' live?!

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Strong women edition

Happy Friday! There's a little film coming out next week called 'Suffragette' - you might have heard of it, it's not a massive deal or anything... - so I thought to celebrate female empowerment and women everywhere I'd make a playlist of my top female artists.

10) PVRIS

I had to include PVRIS, because Lynn Gunn is the epitome of awesome, but I decided to put them lower down because I've had them in way too many playlists recently - sorry about that!

9) The Pretty Reckless

People often complain about Taylor Momsen, but she's managed to have a successful acting career and a successful career in music - what's there to mock about that?

8) Marmozets

Marmozets are definitely not my type of music, but I can't fault Becca MacIntyre, who is the front of the scene for women in heavier music. I'm thinking lots more heavy bands with females will be emerging thanks to their influence on the scene. 

7) Taylor Swift

No playlist on strong females of our time could be complete without Taylor Swift, who is inspiring an entire generation of girls to live life to the fullest and be true to them. 

6) Halestorm

There's only one word for Lzzy Hale - kickass. 

5) Halsey

I've only started listening to Halsey (aka Ashley Frangipane) recently, but she's managed to get a #2 album on Billboard despite being on an indie record label. She rocks. 

4) We Are The In Crowd

Tay Jardine manages to be sweet and friendly, and badass as all heck. 

3) Tonight Alive

The only Australian band on this list, Jenna McDougall is flying the flag for all women down under. 

2) Lady Gaga

As well as using the profits of her new song to aid victims of sexual assault, Lady Gaga - despite her insane fashion sense - has always been vocal about women's rights. She's dealt with more misogyny and bullying than any other inclusion on this list, so bravo to her. 

1) Paramore

Not afraid to admit when she's wrong, Hayley Williams, Paramore's frontwoman, is an inspiration to women everywhere. She's been in the band since she was thirteen - THIRTEEN! - and she hasn't let fame go to her head. 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Panic! At The Disco edition

To celebrate the release of 'Victorious' (Panic! At The Disco's best song in the last four years) AND the ten year anniversary of 'A Fever You Can't Sweat Out' (the best debut album of all time, ever) I thought it was appropriate to dedicate this week's playlist to them. So sit back and enjoy!

10) 'The Piano Knows Something I Don't Know' (alternate version)

This is absolutely mind-blowing through headphones. I love it when vocals get layered. 

9) 'The Ballad of Mona Lisa'

Great song, better video. 

8) 'Build God, Then We'll Talk'

Brilliant song, but I don't think the video could be any weirder. Why did I not realise how weird this band was? This playlist was a terrible idea.

7) 'Miss Jackson'

Having Lolo on this song was a stroke of genius, and it was a brilliant way too launch 'Too Weird To Live, Too Rare To Die'. 

6) 'Northern Downpour'

'Cause we all need a good cry sometimes. 

5) 'Hurricane'

"You'll dance to anything." 

4) 'There's A Good Reason These Tables Are Numbered, Honey, You Just Haven't Thought Of It Yet'

Oh, the theatricality! 

3) 'Bohemian Rhapsody'

One of the most genius covers of all time, ever. 

2) 'Victorious'

This is a return to form for the band, after what was a lackluster fourth album. 

1) 'New Perspective'

I don't know what it is about this one that I like so much, but it's up here. 

Well, I hope you enjoyed the very mixed bunch of songs in this playlist! I'm going to go and try and get Porno Mime out of my head... Shudder.

EDIT:
Because bad things sometimes happen, I completely forgot to include my FAVOURITE Panic! song - so here's a bonus track for this playlist...

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Autumn edition

Happy Friday! I don't know about you, but I've had a lovely, lovely week - despite the terrible weather we've been having. American readers, I'm not sure if it's as bad for you, but here in England it's been pouring down with rain all week and has been very cold.
I always find that autumn is the time of year when I feel very sentimental and I'll start reminiscing on the year that's gone by - it might be because of the cold weather or the leaves dying on the trees, but it's a very sad time for me.

10) 'Fallen Leaves' by Billy Talent

Pretty self-explanatory.

9) 'Always Summer' by Yellowcard

"It's always summer in my heart and in my soul."

8) 'Almost Lover' by A Fine Frenzy

This song is so melancholy - perfect for nights towards the end of the year. 

7) 'Hurricane' by 30 Seconds To Mars

I know hurricanes happen all year, but they're destructive and cold - pretty much the epitome of autumn.

6) 'You're So Last Summer' by Taking Back Sunday

Even if last summer is three weeks ago. 

5) 'The Last Time' by Taylor Swift (ft. Gary Lightbody)

Yes, I had to include Taylor Swift. So many of her songs are autumnal - this is probably my favourite. 

4) 'August Is Over' by We The Kings

Another self-explanatory choice. 

3) 'Truce' by twenty one pilots

I can't listen to 'Truce' unless it's night time and it's cold, because I listened to it so much when walking home late. It's the quintessential autumn song for me. 

2) 'Fireworks' by You Me At Six

As well as being utterly heart-breaking, 'Fireworks' works because Bonfire Night falls towards the beginning of November, which is very rapidly approaching. 

1) 'Divorce and the American South' by Aaron West and the Roaring Twenties

Probably the most depressing song that I've ever heard - whenever I listen to it I always imagine Aaron on the phone to his ex-wife in the middle of the night, because when better to make a desperate phone call?

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Scottish edition

It's been a year since Scotland voted against independence from the United Kingdom, and I thought what better way to celebrate our continued connection than by doing a playlist of brilliant Scottish artists?

10) Amy MacDonald

'This Is The Life' is one of the most beautiful songs ever. I really do need to listen to more of Amy's music, because this is the only song she's made that I know. 

9) The Xcerts

One of the only bands with a name beginning with X (other than The XX!) The Xcerts really do stand out. 

8) Yashin

With a new album in the pipeline, I'm sure we'll be hearing much more from Yashin very soon.

7) Paolo Nutini

I challenge you to listen to this song and not have a smile on your face by the end of it. 

6) Franz Ferdinand

Franz Ferdinand were one of the first ever bands that I saw live, so they have a very special place in my heart. 

5) Snow Patrol

One of the best bands of all time, Snow Patrol are brilliant musically and lyrically. It definitely helps that their vocalist, Gary Lightbody, sang on 'The Last Time' with Taylor Swift, but Gary is actually Irish - that could be a playlist for the future!

4) Prides

Definitely the danciest band on this list!

3) The Fratellis

I love The Fratellis. Unbeatable. 

2) Biffy Clyro

Probably one of the most famous Scottish bands of all time, and definitely one of the most successful.

1) Twin Atlantic

The only reason Twin Atlantic take my top spot is because of how beautiful Sam McTrusty's accent is in his vocal. Often, you can't tell where a band come from based off of their singer's voice - that's not the case here.

I hope you enjoyed my Friday playlist! Do you know any Scottish band that I missed? 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Bring Me The Horizon edition

I promise, honestly, I promise - I'm going to stop going on about Bring Me The Horizon soon. But come on, guys, they're about to release their most exciting album - in fact, one of the most exciting albums for the rock world this year. So I had to use the release date for a Bring Me The Horizon playlist!
So here are my favourite Bring Me The Horizon songs...

10) 'Football Season Is Over'

9) 'Shadow Moses'

8) 'Throne'

7) 'Alligator Blood'

6) 'No Need For Introductions, I've Read About Girls Like You On The Back Of Toilet Doors'

5) 'Can You Feel My Heart?' 

4) 'Drown'

3) '...And The Snakes Start To Sing'

2) 'It Never Ends'

1) 'Deathbeds'

If you haven't guessed by now, I really liked 'Sempiternal'. I am so excited for 'That's The Spirit', and I highly suggest you pick up a copy to support the band - they've worked so hard, they do deserve it. 

FRIDAY PLAYLIST: Best songs I saw at Reading 2015 edition

I know, I know, I haven't stopped going on about Reading festival over the last couple of weeks - it's a massive deal, okay?! But I promise that this will be the last post about it until next year... Maybe...

Because I saw such a huge amount of songs at the weekend, I decided to compile a list of my top ten songs - the ones that were stuck in my head for the entire day after hearing them, the ones that I was humming to myself on the bus to work days afterwards.

10) 'Holy' by PVRIS

Of course.

9) '10,000 Summers' by No Devotion

It's a bit too slow to go further up this list, but when Geoff Rickly incited the chant of "ten thousand summers" at the end of the song, I had goosebumps. 

8) 'What Went Down' by Foals

WHEN I SEE A MAN I SEE A LION.

7) 'Cool Kids' by Echosmith

Yes, it's glorified pop music, but I love it - okay?!

6) 'Happy Song' by Bring Me The Horizon

S. P. I. R. I. T. SPIRIT. LET'S HEAR IT.

5) 'Regret' by Everything Everything

I mess up in life frequently, meaning that the chant of "Regret! Regret!" has become my constant emotion throughout this summer. 

4) 'Hallelujah' by Panic! At The Disco

I didn't think much of this song when I first heard it, but it's damn addictive live.

3) 'I Hate You' by Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes

Pro tip: Don't sing this song to your best friend - they won't appreciate it. Frank Carter hurts feelings.

2) 'Weighted' by frnkiero and the Cellabration

I never would have thought that Frank Iero would get a song on one of my playlists, but I freaking love this one and can't stop listening to it.

1) 'Boom' by Simple Plan

Could there really be any doubt? The first time I heard it was live, and it's got such a great, fun singalong - Simple Plan are the kings of the chorus, and this one is another jewel in their crown. 

I hope you enjoyed this week's Friday playlist - see you next week!